Faith is a four-year-old German Shepherd, and the daughter of the renowned K-9 officer, Canjo, known for his exceptional work as a narcotic detector and for helping bring over 80 bad guys to justice. From catching criminals to being crowned queen, it’s safe to say greatness runs in the family.

Faith’s journey began after losing her dad during an emergency surgery, despite him receiving two pints of blood. During this loss, her family learned just how important canine blood donors can be. Determined to help other dogs, Faith’s blood was tested, and her family discovered she is a universal donor.

Faith is a canine hero, donating for two years now, with 10 blood donations under her belt. She has saved over 20 lives and has been an amazing contributor to the Canine Blood Donor Program at Michigan State’s Veterinary Medical Center.

This spring, Faith was voted to the Frankenmuth Dog Bowl Royal Court by members of the public. As part of the Royal Court, Faith was able to lead the pet parade of the Frankenmuth Dog Bowl with the rest of the court. Each member was celebrated for their unique accomplishments and traits during the award ceremony, where they received treats and applause. Faith was nominated for Queen in order to bring more awareness to canine blood donor programs.

“This was a world I knew nothing about until Canjo had received blood. We’re utilizing our social media platforms to help bring awareness, but Dog Bowl Queen opened a new opportunity,” says Jody Wilk, Faith’s family member, and founder of K9 Hero Guardians.

Although Faith might be royalty, her life is similar to any other dog. “Faith loves playing with her toys, going for walks, and sometimes just sitting and watching her surroundings. She is happiest when she is with her people,” says Wilk.

Faith is one of 70 dogs who participate in the Donor Program at the Veterinary Medical Center. These dedicated volunteers contribute approximately 300 units of canine packed red blood cells, and 100 units of canine plasma each year—but they don’t go home empty-pawed! Each donor receives annual bloodwork, a physical exam, and their choice of a $40 credit at the Hospital or a large bag of food per donation—plus all the treats and playtime they can enjoy during their visit. Some volunteers donate up to four times per year, with each donation saving two to four lives, depending on how the blood is used.

“Animal blood donations are vital to the work that is done at the MSU Veterinary Medical Center. The Blood Donor Program supports many services in the Hospital and provides life-saving blood products to critically ill patients. Our blood donors provide the gift of life with each donation,” says Rose Wahl, LVT, head of the Donor Program.

Surprisingly enough, donors don’t seem to mind having their blood drawn at all! When it’s time to donate, the four-legged lifesavers are brought up onto the table and asked to lie on their side. A small patch of fur is clipped to ensure safe and efficient blood collection. Once the area is prepped, a needle is inserted, and blood is run into the collection bag, where it can be weighed to be sure the correct amount is collected from each donor. Each donated unit is separated into packed red blood cells and plasma, both of which serve important purposes. Packed red blood cells are used to treat blood loss or anemia, while plasma helps treat clotting disorders and low blood protein levels. When the unit is collected, donors are allowed to sit up, and a bandage is placed around the neck. Just like that, these dedicated heroes are back to smiling ear to ear with their tails wagging—as Faith can vouch, since she’s known for her great personality while giving blood.

“Faith is an absolute gem to work with. She is always so excited to come back to the donor room and loves socializing with the staff. It is almost as if she knows her job here is important, and she is proud of the work she is doing,” says Wahl. “We are so grateful to Faith, and all our donors, and their dedicated owners, who support the Blood Donor Program and aid in the care of the critically ill patients here at the Veterinary Medical Center. Their blood donations are truly a life-saving gift.”

Faith’s story is a testament to the ongoing service of the donors and team within the Veterinary Medical Center’s Donor Program. From her life-saving contributions to her advocacy in the community, she represents the extraordinary impact that dogs can make every day, both inside and outside the Hospital.

If you have a healthy dog who weighs over 50 pounds, they may be eligible to become a donor hero and help save lives, just like Faith.

For more information on the Canine Blood Donor Program, see here.